Saildrive shaft seal replacement -- "pro" only?

[goboatingnow]

Originally Posted by tamicatana

My understanding is replacement every 6-9 years. As in, same as the saildrive boots.



Where did you hear to do that yearly?

Yes my Volvo reccomendation is 7 years.

[PaintedKite]

Originally Posted by Captain Bill

The only issue is getting the old seals out of the carrier without scratching the sealing surface and pressing the new seals into position. An arbor press is nice to have for doing this. Also making sure the seals are facing the proper direction. Any competent mechanic should be able to handle this with no problem. I've done it in less than an hour.

Yes, the local Volvo Penta shop says there's a special tool to press the new seals into position.

[PaintedKite]

Originally Posted by zstine

Haha!! Pro-Only!? There is no such thing!! In my experience, hiring a pro means you get a crappier result that cost a lot of money and then you need to fix yourself anyway.. The only time I'd hire a pro is if it is required by law (ex. need a PE stamp). Learn how to do it, then you know how to fix it when it breaks!


There are a bunch of YouTube videos showing you how to change your seals and it is absolutely a DIY job!!

Um, actually, there's exactly 1 video on YouTube, and it looks like it was shot on 8mm film in 1974. Oh, and they leave out some critical parts of the job.

[PaintedKite]

Originally Posted by jacktheflyer

Easy job for anyone a bit handy. Having said that, the biggest problem is removing, dissembling, assembling, and reinstalling propellers depending on what you have.

Prop is a new VP 3-bladed folding, installed along with the saildrive one year ago.

[Glasshopper]

The seals are removed by pressing INWARDS, (because there's a lip in the housing outwards of them), per the Bavaria manual but contrary to what my professional had (yes i read his manual to satisfy myself that is wasnt him who screwed up upon his 1st attempt). The special tools were a vice, flat screwdriver and a hammer. Simply dent the seals brutally till they fold. Followed by Loctite 515 before installing the new seals, to redeem the scratch arising from the 1st failed attempt.
Bert.

[Captain Bill]

Originally Posted by PaintedKite

Yes, the local Volvo Penta shop says there's a special tool to press the new seals into position.

There's always a special tool from the manufacturer. Always outrageously priced.

[PaintedKite]

Originally Posted by tamicatana

My understanding is replacement every 6-9 years. As in, same as the saildrive boots.

Where did you hear to do that yearly?

Actually, the recommendation to me was to change the lower seal every time you haul-out. And I generally end up hauling-out about every year or two for something or other.